The ceremony held Saturday at Sarasota National Cemetery was part of “National Wreaths Across America Day.” At national cemeteries across the U.S., wreaths were placed upon the graves of those who in life served our country.
“It’s giving recognition to the veterans,” said Sarasota National Cemetery volunteer Martin Donner. “Regardless of their religion, regardless of where they served and how they served.”
The wreaths serve as a reminder that each of these veterans will never be forgotten.
Its a calming thought for veteran Wayne Jensen, who knows Sarasota National Cemetery will be his final resting place.
“I’m going to have a wreath myself here some day, even though I’m not with us anymore, it’s going to feel pretty good as far as I’m concerned,” said Jensen, who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. “Just knowing it now makes me feel good.”
Jensen said it didn’t matter to him what war each person served in. He considers everyone in the cemetery his family.
“Basically I know everybody, they’re all my brothers and sisters,” said Jensen. “We all served this wonderful country of ours.”
The wreaths will be kept on the graves until January 14th.